Freshwater Parish Council has kicked off its Skate Deck Art Auction with a packed opening night, raising momentum – and funds – for a proposed new skatepark and pump track on the Isle of Wight.
The launch event took place on Wednesday (2nd April) at Newport & Carisbrooke Community Centre between 18:30 and 20:30, attracting a strong turnout throughout the evening.
Visitors were treated to a celebration of local skateboarding culture, with displays highlighting historic Isle of Wight skate spots such as Shide Ramp and Golden Hill Skatepark, alongside a broader look at the history of skateboarding.
A live skate ramp added to the atmosphere, with demonstrations from local skaters John Cattle and Hamish Flemming, as well as some of the Island’s up-and-coming young riders. Their performances underlined the demand for a modern facility in Freshwater.
The evening also saw recognition given to a £500 donation from High Sheriff Jacqueline Gazzard, reflecting growing support for the project.
Artists, skaters, families and residents came together to view the exhibition, with organisers reporting a strong and positive response to the artwork now available for bidding.
Kirsty Gibson, Freshwater Parish Clerk, has said:
“The opening night was a fantastic success and really showed what can be achieved when the community comes together.
“The creativity from our local artists has been incredible, and seeing people of all ages engaging with the project highlights just how important this new skatepark and pump track will be for Freshwater.
“We’re extremely grateful for the support we’ve received so far, including the generous donation from the High Sheriff, and we’re excited to keep building momentum.”
From Wednesday (22nd April), the skate decks will go on display at multiple locations across the Isle of Wight. These include The Piano Café, Dimbola, Stoates Farm, Colemans Carpets, The Albion Hotel, West Wight Sports & Community Centre, Robert Thompson (Ryde), George Hotel (Yarmouth), The Hut, Wightlink Ferries (Yarmouth) and Ventnor Exchange. Additional venues are expected to be announced.
The online auction runs from 1st April until 9th May 2026, with all proceeds going towards the Freshwater Skatepark & Pump Track project. Members of the public can browse and place bids at www.app.galabid.com/freshwater-skatepark/items
Freshwater Parish Council says it remains committed to progressing the scheme, with hopes that construction could begin later this year.
Further information about the proposed project can be found at www.freshwater-parish.org.uk/proposed-new-freshwater-skatepark-pump-track/
